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Losavio & DeJean, LLC – Baton Rouge’s Trusted Estate Planning & Elder Law Attorneys

Estate Planning Attorneys in Baton Rouge

Call Losavio & DeJean, LLC, The Louisiana Elder Law Firm, Today

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Are you approaching retirement or have you already retired? If so, now is the perfect time to start planning for your future. You have spent years building financial security and are looking forward to a peaceful and secure retirement. However, without a clear legal and financial plan, your hard-earned assets could face unnecessary taxes, lengthy legal processes, or unexpected distributions.

Working with an experienced attorney isn’t just a transaction – it’s an investment in certainty. They will ensure that your property and assets are managed, protected, and aligned with your wishes for your legacy. In Louisiana, where the Napoleonic Code-based civil law system operates, generic online forms and plans from outside the state can lead to costly invalidations. That’s why local, specialized guidance is essential – not just advisable – when it comes to planning for retirement.

Our elder law attorney at Losavio & DeJean, LLC have over four decades of experience and specialized knowledge in all aspects of estate planning. We are experts in avoiding probate, preserving assets, retirement tax planning, government benefits planning and estate taxes. We have helped countless families navigate transitions and adapt strategies to changing laws and personal circumstances. Our depth of experience means we anticipate challenges that you may not have considered, such as the implications of blended families on inheritance and the nuances of Louisiana’s forced heirship rules. We do more than just draft documents – we create personalized plans that are resilient. We can put our comprehensive experience to work for you and your family, turning complexity into clarity.

Understanding the Louisiana Legal Landscape

Before delving into the specifics of estate planning services, it’s important for residents of Baton Rouge to understand the unique nature of Louisiana’s legal system. Unlike many other states, Louisiana follows a civil law system based on the Napoleonic Code, which fundamentally affects how estate planning is conducted. This includes issues such as community property, inheritance rights, and succession procedures.

For example, Louisiana’s “forced heirship” laws may require a portion of an individual’s estate to be passed to their children, even if their will specifies otherwise. Additionally, the probate process known as “succession” in Louisiana has specific filing requirements and deadlines that differ from those in common law states.

To ensure that your estate plan is valid and effective in Louisiana, it’s crucial to work with an attorney who is well-versed in the unique legal environment. Attempting to create a one-size-fits-all will or trust may result in a partially or entirely unenforceable plan, leaving your loved ones in a prolonged legal battle.

  • Would absolutely recommend Losavio & DeJean for any/all estate planning needs. They were able to evaluate my parents’ specific needs and situation and were able to advise on the best course of action to make sure we were as prepared as possible. They also have an attentive and detail-oriented staff who make it a priority to make things move smoothly and efficiently. Whether you’re located in Baton Rouge or elsewhere in Louisiana, Losavio & DeJean has you covered for all things elder law / estate planning.

    Jake

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Our Estate Planning Services

Every family is unique with different dynamics, assets and aspirations, which is why we offer personalized estate planning services to ensure your best interests are always considered. Our estate planning lawyers in Baton Rouge work closely with your financial advisors and accountants to develop a comprehensive strategy tailored to your needs. We believe in a collaborative approach and work together with your advisor and accountant to understand your goals, create a plan to protect and preserve your wealth, and ensure that your assets are distributed in accordance with your wishes. Our lawyers will synthesize all information gathered from your advisors to establish a legal framework for your estate plan.

Whether you own a business or want to leave a legacy for future generations, our team can help you create a plan that fits your unique situation. We understand that every family is different, and we tailor our services to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you achieve your financial goals.

We offer a full range of estate planning services, including:

You have spent your life building your assets. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney can give you peace of mind knowing that your affairs are in order. Beyond simply preparing documents, we engage in a process of exploration and strategy. We help you answer difficult questions such as: who will take care of your children if you are unable? How can you support a child with special needs without disrupting their government benefits? What is the most efficient way to pass on your business or real estate to your family? Through careful estate planning, we structure your assets in a way that benefits you and your loved ones. Losavio & DeJean, LLC can help you feel confident about your future through estate planning.

The High Cost of Procrastination: Why “Someday” Is a Risk

Many people view estate planning as something to do “someday”, not realizing that disability or death can happen without warning. The consequences of delaying can be severe for your loved ones. If you become disabled without a financial power of attorney or a healthcare directive in place, your family may need to go through a court process to get guardianship, which can be public, stressful and expensive.

If you die without a will (intestate), the default laws in Louisiana will dictate how your assets are distributed, which may not reflect your wishes and could cause family conflict. Additionally, without trusts or beneficiary designations, your entire estate could be tied up in a long succession process, leaving your heirs without access to money for immediate needs. Planning now is an act of love and protection for those closest to you.

  • You guys are really Angels. Everybody was so nice. You go above and beyond for your clients. Thank You, for your help with the unique trust for me & family. We Thank You for your spectacular service.

    Margot

Benefits of Estate Planning

Having an estate plan set up can provide you and your loved ones with various benefits. It is never too early to start preparing for your future. It leaves nothing to chance and allows you to have peace of mind that all of your assets are accounted for. There are multiple benefits to set up an estate plan as soon as possible, they include:

  • Providing For Your Loved Ones
  • Protect Your Children
  • Minimize Your Expenses
  • Distribute Your Property and Assets Quickly
  • Stress Free Retirement
  • Avoid the Probate Process
  • Be Prepared for Medical Obstacles
  • Preserve Your Assets

Estate planning ensures your family is taken care of in the future. The experienced Baton Rouge estate planning attorneys at Losavio & DeJean, LLC are here to help guide you through the process and help find the estate plan that meets your specific needs. Call today to discuss your options.

How Often Should You Update Your Louisiana Estate Plan?

Elder Law Is an Important Part of Estate Planning

In addition to preserving your wealth and protecting your businesses and estates, there are steps you can take to ensure that you are protected as well. Planning for powers of attorney, Medicaid, disability benefits, and probate can ensure that if the unexpected happens, you and your family are taken care of.

At Losavio & DeJean, LLC, we provide clients with specialized, experienced, compassionate, and we have deep knowledge and experience in elder law. We have a case manager and registered nurse on staff, and we are well-respected throughout the community. Our Baton Rouge estate planning lawyers are also able to travel to you if need be.

Common Estate Planning FAQs

Why should I work with an elder law firm for my estate plan?

Estate planning for retirees involves unique legal and financial considerations, such as long-term care, government benefits, and retirement tax strategies. As an established elder law firm, we have over 40 years of deep, specialized knowledge in these areas. This focus allows us to craft plans that not only distribute your assets but also proactively address the challenges of aging, preserve your wealth from long-term care costs, and ensure your well-being is legally protected.

What is the main benefit of avoiding probate?

The probate process in Louisiana can be time-consuming, costly, and public. Avoiding probate through tools like living trusts allows for the faster, private, and often less expensive transfer of your assets to your beneficiaries. It minimizes administrative expenses and legal fees, reduces family stress during a difficult time, and helps prevent disputes by providing clear, immediate instructions for asset distribution.

When is the right time to start estate planning?

The best time is now. It’s never too early to put a basic plan in place, but it becomes critically important as you approach or enter retirement. Proactive planning allows you to make clear-headed decisions, ensure your healthcare wishes are documented, and protect your assets from potential future long-term care costs. Delaying can limit your options and put you and your family at risk if a medical or cognitive emergency arises.

What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will is a fundamental document that directs how your assets will be distributed after your death, and it must go through the probate court. A trust is a legal entity that holds and manages assets for beneficiaries. A key benefit of a revocable living trust is that it avoids probate, provides for management of your assets if you become incapacitated, and offers greater control and privacy. We can help you determine which tools, or combination of them, best suit your goals.

How does your firm coordinate with my other advisors?

We believe in a team approach. Your financial advisor and accountant play vital roles in your overall financial health. Our attorneys work collaboratively with your existing team to ensure your legal estate plan aligns seamlessly with your financial and tax strategies. This coordination is essential for effective retirement tax planning, asset preservation, and achieving a cohesive, comprehensive plan for your future.

What does long-term care planning involve?

Long-term care planning is a proactive strategy to protect your life savings from the high costs of nursing home or in-home care. It involves legal tools like irrevocable trusts, understanding and planning for Medicaid eligibility requirements, and exploring insurance options. Our goal is to help you qualify for necessary government benefits while preserving your assets for your spouse or heirs, providing peace of mind for your future care needs.

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